Back pain sends Fire's Friedrich into retirement

Only the timing was a surprise as Fire defender Arne Friedrich called it a career Sunday.

Citing persistent back pain, the 34-year-old German said he would end a 14-year career that included competition at the highest levels.

Friedrich made the early morning announcement via Twitter and on his website. The Fire later confirmed his decision.

“The last couple of weeks ... I have been suffering from increasing back pain,” Friedrich wrote on his website. “With two herniated discs in my lower back, I am no longer able to fulfill the demands of a professional soccer player. For this reason, I have asked the Chicago Fire to terminate my contract.

“The time has come to take care of my body and start a new chapter in my life.”

Attempts to reach Friedrich and his agent for further comment were unsuccessful. Fire coach Frank Klopas and President Javier Leon were also not available. But some of Friedrich's former teammates were quick to offer praise via Twitter.

“Not only did Arne Friedrich have a fantastic career, he became one of my best friends,” Daniel Paladini wrote. “Great professional, even better human being.”

Friedrich mentored defender Austin Berry on the way to 2012 MLS rookie of the year honors.

“Sad to see Arne Friedrich retire, world class player and friend. We will miss (you),” Berry wrote.

The decision was not unexpected. Friedrich played sparingly in the preseason and had not appeared in an MLS game after first suffering a hamstring injury followed by hip and back problems.

He underwent treatment in Chicago, then traveled to Berlin to work with his longtime therapist. With no assurance if Friedrich might come back, the Fire recently acquired defender Bakary Soumare to help fill the gap.

Friedrich's career highlights include 82 appearances with the German national team, including third-place World Cup finishes in 2006 and 2010.

The Fire plan to honor Friedrich at an upcoming home game.

“I wish the Fire and their fantastic fans all the best,” Friedrich wrote. “My time in Chicago was awesome, I made new friends and will consider Chicago to be a second home.”